2c Lake, Panama-Pacific, "Gatun Locks" Error, Small Die Proof on India (398-E3b). Full margins, fresh color, two tiny thins

VERY FINE APPEARANCE. AN EXTREMELY RARE AND FASCINATING UNITED STATES ERROR, WHICH EXISTS ONLY IN PROOF STATE. AN IMPORTANT ITEM FOR THE PROOF OR ERROR SPECIALIST.

The 2c Panama-Pacific stamp design was based on a model chosen by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's director. He first rejected a photograph sent from the Panama Canal. Instead, a scaled model on display at the War Department was photographed and used as the basis for the engraving. What the Bureau did not realize until after the stamps had been printed was that the image was incorrectly identified as the Gatun Locks. In fact, the scene was of the Pedro Miguel Locks. Realizing its mistake prior to releasing the finished stamps, the Bureau destroyed all copies of the Gatun Locks error and re-engraved the die to read "Panama Canal." The stamps were printed from new plates, and the only tangible evidence of the Bureau's error to reach the public was the die proofs reading "Gatun Locks." Only two proofs are generally thought to exist, plus the two (slightly different) original photographic models, one of which is offered in lot 172. Brazer states that only one small die proof impression is in public hands. The whereabouts of the Scott listed large die proof is unknown to us or to leading proof and essay dealers

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